Character Trait: Formal

To engage your reader, it's important to always show not tell the traits of your characters. The character trait "Formal" typically refers to a person who is serious and reserved in their behavior and communication. They may adhere to strict rules of etiquette and protocol, and prefer to maintain a professional and dignified demeanor in most situations. A formal character may be more comfortable in structured environments, and may have a preference for traditional or conservative values. It's important to note that a formal character is not necessarily cold or unfriendly, but simply has a different approach to social interactions.

Possible causes of being formal

You might want to weave these into your character's back story to build a more believable character.

• Professional training or education that emphasizes rules and protocol
• Growing up in a highly structured environment
• Fear of making mistakes or breaking rules
• Cultural or societal norms that value formality and tradition
• Exposure to strict authority figures or role models
• Personal preference for order and predictability
• Desire to maintain a professional image or reputation
• Insecurity or lack of confidence in social situations

Behaviors associated with being formal

You may be able to show your character's trait of formal by using these.

• Using proper titles and honorifics (Mr., Mrs., Dr., etc.)
• Following social etiquette and norms
• Maintaining a professional demeanor in both speech and behavior
• Using formal language and avoiding colloquialisms or slang
• Dressing in appropriate attire for the occasion
• Speaking in a polite and respectful tone
• Avoiding personal or informal topics in conversation

Attitudes associated with being formal

You may be able to show formal through their attitudes.

• Appreciation for tradition and heritage
• Politeness and respectfulness
• Attention to detail and precision
• Professionalism and seriousness
• Concern for social status and hierarchy
• Emphasis on decorum and propriety
• Adherence to rules and conventions
• Avoidance of informality or familiarity

Thoughts and struggles associated with being formal

Here are some ideas for things your formal character may think or struggle with.

• Difficulty with loosening up and having fun in social situations
• Tendency to be judgmental of others who don't adhere to formal standards
• Fear of being seen as too emotional or unprofessional
• Struggle with expressing personal opinions or beliefs
• Obsessing over following rules and protocol
• Inability to handle or accept criticism or feedback
• Fear of making mistakes or being perceived as incompetent
• Difficulty with adapting to new situations or changes

Emotions associated with being formal

Here are some ideas for emotions your formal character may experience.

• Courteous
• Proper
• Rigid
• Reserved
• Dignified
• Respectful
• Conscientious
• Serious
• Polite

Facial expressions associated with being formal

Here are some facial expressions your formal character may exhibit.

• A relaxed jaw to convey calmness and poise
• A furrowed brow to indicate deep thought or concern
• A slight smile or polite nod to acknowledge the presence of others
• Eye contact that is direct but not overly intense or intimidating
• Raised eyebrows to express surprise or interest
• A straight face or gentle smile to maintain composure and professionalism
• A closed mouth or slight pursing of the lips to signal attentiveness and focus

Body language associated with being formal

Here is some body language your formal character may exhibit.

• Avoiding fidgeting or playing with objects
• Speaking in a clear and measured tone
• Keeping hands clasped in front or behind the body
• Crossing legs at the ankles rather than the knees
• Nodding the head slightly while listening to show engagement
• Standing or sitting up straight
• Using hand gestures sparingly and purposefully
• Using formal language and avoiding slang or casual expressions
• Maintaining eye contact while speaking or listening

Behaviors associated with being formal

Here are some behaviors your formal character may exhibit.

• Using formal language and avoiding colloquialisms or slang
• Avoiding personal or informal topics in conversation
• Dressing in appropriate attire for the occasion
• Speaking in a polite and respectful tone
• Using proper titles and honorifics (Mr., Mrs., Dr., etc.)
• Maintaining a professional demeanor in both speech and behavior
• Following social etiquette and norms

Growth and evolution of formal characters

Here are some ways that your formal character may grow and evolve over time.

• Develop deeper emotional connections with others
• Learn to adapt to new situations or environments
• Become more empathetic and understanding towards others' perspectives
• Learn to loosen up and be more spontaneous in their actions or speech
• Develop a sense of creativity or appreciation for art or other forms of self-expression
• Learn to trust their intuition and take risks
• Develop a sense of humor or learn to appreciate humor in others
• Overcome their fears or insecurities
• Learn to be more assertive or stand up for themselves
• Let go of strict adherence to rules and regulations in order to do what's right or just

Stereotypes of formal characters to avoid

Try to avoid writing stereotypical formal character like these examples.

• Excessive seriousness or lack of humor
• Rigid adherence to rules and protocols
• Arrogance or superiority complex
• Overly formal or archaic language
• Stiff and robotic behavior
• Inability to connect with others on a personal level
• Lack of emotions or expression
• Lack of adaptability or flexibility
• Obsessive attention to detail to the point of being pedantic

Negatives of being formal

Here are some potential negatives of being formal. Note: These are subjective and some might also be seen as positives depending on the context.

• Formality can come across as cold and impersonal, creating distance between the character and the reader.
• Being overly formal can be off-putting to some readers, who may find it pretentious or forced.
• A character who is too formal may struggle to adapt to new situations or social contexts, as they may be overly rigid in their behavior.
• Formality can limit a character's ability to connect with others, as it may hinder their ability to be vulnerable or empathetic.

Positives of being formal

Here are some potential positives of being formal. Note: These are subjective and some might also be seen as negatives depending on the context.

• Using formal language can help to maintain decorum and civility, especially in situations that may be emotionally charged or sensitive.
• Formality can help to establish boundaries and expectations for behavior in professional or social settings.
• It can also serve as a way to honor traditions and customs in ceremonial or cultural contexts.
• It can establish a sense of structure and order in formal settings such as business meetings or academic conferences.
• It can create a sense of authority and convey expertise on a subject.
• Being formal can convey respect and professionalism in communication.
• Formal language can also help to clarify meaning and avoid ambiguity.

Verbal expressions of formal characters

Here are some potential expressions used by formal characters.

• Good morning/afternoon/evening
• Excuse me
• I apologize
• With all due respect
• Thank you
• It is my pleasure to
• In conclusion
• Kind regards/sincerely/best regards
• If I may
• May I ask/suggest/recommend
• Please
• I trust this finds you well
• Yours faithfully/sincerely
• As per our conversation/agreement

Relationships of formal characters

Here are some ways that being formal could affect your character's relationships.

• They may be more reserved in their communication style, preferring to use formal language and avoid slang or informal expressions.
• Formal people tend to maintain a polite and respectful distance with others, especially those they don't know well.
• They may be more likely to adhere to strict schedules and routines, and may become frustrated when others don't respect their time or commitments.
• When interacting with others, formal individuals may place a high value on professionalism and may be more focused on achieving specific goals or outcomes rather than building personal connections.
• They may be more guarded with their emotions and personal information, preferring to keep things private and maintain a sense of decorum.
• Formal individuals may prioritize proper etiquette and following social norms, which can sometimes result in a rigid or inflexible approach to interactions with others.

Examples from books of characters who are formal

• Atticus Finch from "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee
• Captain Ahab from "Moby Dick" by Herman Melville
• Ebenezer Scrooge from "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens
• Dracula from "Dracula" by Bram Stoker
• Professor Snape from the "Harry Potter" series by J.K. Rowling
• Sherlock Holmes from the "Sherlock Holmes" series by Arthur Conan Doyle
• Lady Catherine de Bourgh from "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen
• Mr. Darcy from "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen
• Miss Havisham from "Great Expectations" by Charles Dickens

Writing exercises for writing formal characters

Here are some writing exercises you might try for learning to write formal characters.

• Write a letter or an email from your character to a business partner, a government official, or a prestigious organization. How do they address the recipient, structure their message, and sign off?
• Create a scene where your character is attending a formal event, such as a gala or a wedding. Describe how they dress, behave, and interact with others. Do they follow the protocol or break the rules?
• Write a dialogue between your character and someone who is more casual or informal in their speech and behavior. How does your character react to their informality?
• Imagine your character in a workplace setting where they have to follow a strict dress code and adhere to professional etiquette. Describe how they handle conflicts, communicate with coworkers, and deal with authority figures.
• Create a backstory for your character that explains why they value formality. Did they grow up in a traditional or aristocratic family? Did they have a strict mentor or a role model who taught them the importance of manners and decorum? How do their beliefs and values affect their present-day behavior?